Two South African minibus drivers are expected to face human trafficking-related charges after Limpopo traffic officers intercepted two minibuses carrying 48 undocumented Zimbabwean nationals on the N1 bypass near Polokwane on Friday morning.
Limpopo traffic officers said the vehicles were stopped during a routine operation at the Polokwane Traffic Control Centre while travelling from Zimbabwe towards Gauteng.
According to the Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety, the vehicles were stopped during a routine operation, leading to the activation of immigration authorities on site.
The department spokesperson Mashudu Mabata said the first minibus, carrying 27 passengers, had only one individual with a valid passport, while the second vehicle, with 23 passengers, also had only one valid passport holder among those on board.
“The Immigration team was immediately activated and is currently on site processing the 48 individuals found to be in the country illegally, in line with deportation prescripts,” Mabata said.
Authorities confirmed that the group will be removed from the country through formal deportation procedures.
“The group will be escorted back to Beitbridgeborder for deportation processin line with the legal prescripts. Both minibuses have been impounded for contravening the conditions of their operating licences.”
The department added that enforcement operations along key routes will continue as part of efforts to curb illegal movement and ensure compliance with transport and immigration laws.
“The Department remains committed to upholding road and border safety and will continue to work with law enforcement partners to clamp down on illegal activity and protect commuters,” Mabata said
IOL News
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za
